Broken Tooth
Significant structural damage to a tooth beyond a minor chip — may expose sensitive inner layers.
Overview
A broken tooth is more serious than a cosmetic chip. The fracture may extend into the dentine or even the nerve chamber, exposing sensitive tissue to bacteria, temperature changes and pressure. Prompt assessment protects what remains of the tooth.
Breaks often follow an accident, biting on something unexpectedly hard, or occur in a tooth already weakened by a large filling. Grinding can also slowly propagate small cracks until the tooth suddenly fractures.
Treatment depends on the location and depth of the break. Options range from a same-day composite repair through to a crown, root canal treatment plus crown, or — when the tooth cannot be restored — extraction with a discussion of replacement options.
Common symptoms
- Visible fracture or missing piece
- Pain when biting
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Sharp edge that catches the tongue
- Bleeding from the tooth or gum
Common causes
- Trauma from sport, accident or a fall
- Biting down on something hard
- Weakened tooth with a large old filling
- Progression of an existing crack
- Long-standing grinding or clenching
Our approach
Comprehensive examination
We begin with a focused clinical examination, digital X-rays where indicated, and a full medical and dental history to build a complete picture of your symptoms.
Transparent diagnosis
You receive a clear explanation of what we find, shown on-screen with intra-oral imaging so you can see exactly what we see — no jargon, no pressure.
Options-based treatment plan
We present all suitable treatment options with realistic outcomes, timings and written costs so you can make an informed decision at your own pace.
Related conditions
Chipped Tooth
A small break in the tooth enamel — cosmetic or functional repair can usually be completed in one visit.
Cracked Tooth
An incomplete fracture in a tooth that often causes sharp pain when biting — invisible on routine X-rays.
Toothache
Ongoing tooth pain that may be dull, sharp or throbbing — a signal something needs professional attention.
Dental Abscess
UrgentA collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection in a tooth, gum or the supporting bone — needs prompt care.
Get a clear answer, without pressure
Our team will examine, explain and give you all suitable options — with written costs you can take home.
Save 50% on every treatment
From £20/month. Add family for £10/month each. No joining fee.
- 50% off check-ups & hygiene
- 50% off cosmetic & restorative
- Priority appointment booking
- One simple monthly bill